Drivers—Please Slow Down or Stop for Horseback Riders
- Susan Heavilin
- 4 hours ago
- 2 min read
This weekend, this massive group of horse riders was seen riding along Bonita Road. Many residents viewed it and nearly everyone enjoys seeing horses on the trails. Margo Byers Cale put a video up on Facebook and I hope she doesn't mind that I snapped two photos from it!
Notice in the photo above that there are two buttons on the traffic light pole to push. The top one is for horse riders so they can comfortably reach the button—while in the saddle—to cross the road.
In case you're not familiar with the world of horses, California Law states drivers shall reduce speed or stop as necessary for horseback riders.
Here's the actual vehicle code:
California Vehicle Code §21759— Caution in Passing Animals
"The driver of any vehicle approaching any horse drawn vehicle, any ridden animal, or any livestock shall exercise proper control of his vehicle and shall reduce speed or stop as may appear necessary or as may be signaled or otherwise requested by any person driving, riding or in charge of the animal or livestock in order to avoid frightening and to safeguard the animal or livestock and to insure the safety of any person driving or riding the animal or in charge of the livestock."
The equestrian always has the right of way so follow their lead.
If they're crossing the road, stop and wait until they are done crossing. If the rider indicates they want you to stop or wait for whatever reason, then please do so.
If you're passing a rider on the side of the road, slow way down as to not startle the horse. I always slow down and wave when I come across a horse rider and they always wave back!
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